Manager Poyet hinted that something had to be done because the players were trying to build a closer relationship with supporters.

The Uruguayan has spent the last three days brooding over the defeat, wondering why his side made so many mistakes and seemingly gave up.

He has demanded a reaction in training, and, injuries permitting, knows his options are limited in terms of axing players.

The Black Cats face a tough test at home to Arsenal on Saturday, and Poyet said: "It's going to be a difficult week. The players who play next week are going to have to go out and do something about it, for sure.

"But it's going to be an interesting week. From me, to the last player, everybody needs to look at themselves and ask if they did right or wrong. Then, maybe, you can start looking at somebody else.

"There are things you can explain, but, for me, it was impossible to explain."

"I needed Sunday off. I wasn't going to be any harsher. I didn't need to see them on Sunday. Saturday was enough.

"I've never seen one of my teams make so many mistakes."

Keeper Mannone is under the most pressure for his place with summer signing Costel Pantilimon wanting a start. Santiago Vergini is also under review, but lack of cover and injuries could save him.

Vergini, who scored an amazing own goal at St Mary's, said: "I take full responsibility for this. The account we gave of ourselves was embarrassing. We have to look forward now and try to improve for the following game.

"The first step is to accept the errors we committed and we have to be aware that we are responsible for what happened here. We have to look towards the next game and approach it in the best possible condition."

His fellow defender Wes Brown added: "There were not enough of us alive. It has to be a one-off - you can't do that in the Premier League.